Understanding lash extension longevity is ultra-important for any lash enthusiast—whether you apply them or get them applied by a beauty professional.
A couple of key factors affect the lifespan of eyelash extensions, such as lifestyle, the quality of the products used, and which techniques were applied when filling in the lashes themselves.
Natural lash cycles vary from person to person, and as they naturally fall out over time, this can impact the volume and longevity of extensions.
In this guide, we explore the world of eyelash extension longevity, looking at everything from average lifespans and natural lash cycles to proper maintenance and aftercare tips for the most luscious and long-lasting lash extensions possible.
Factors Influencing Lash Extension Longevity
Lash techs know there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how long lash extensions last. These are the most common factors that affect lash longevity:
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Type of eyelash extensions: Classic, hybrid, volume, Russian—they come in all shapes and sizes, each one with a slightly different lifespan to consider.
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Materials and products used: The higher quality materials a technician uses, the more durable the eyelash extensions.
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Quality of application technique: An experienced, skilled hand will apply eyelash extensions with durability, retention, and longevity in mind. A lash technician using glue with a humidity range and drying time that suits them naturally has a better application technique.
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Environmental factors: Humidity (both during and after the application process), exposure to water, and temperature can influence eyelash extension lifespans.
- Personal habits and lifestyle choices: Makeup use, sleeping position, and skincare all affect how long eyelash extensions last.
How Long Do Eyelash Extensions Last?
The average lifespan of eyelash extensions is typically between six and eight weeks. However, the lash type can result in slightly longer or shorter lifespans.
A person’s natural lash growth cycle also plays a role in lash extension retention. It takes the body around four to eight weeks to regrow a lash from follicle to tip, and everyone’s cycle is unique. It’s difficult to tell how many eyelashes fall out in a day, but on average, you can expect to lose anywhere between one and five per day. But don’t worry, it’s completely normal!
The shorter your cycle, the more frequently your eyelash extensions must be removed and reapplied. For the longest-lasting eyelash extensions, regular touch-ups and infills are absolutely crucial!
Proper Maintenance to Extend Lash Life
The better care you take of your eyelash extensions, the longer they will last and the more beautiful they will look. Whether you’re a lash technician or one of the lucky clients they treat, these maintenance tips can benefit everyone in the beauty world:
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Embrace a daily care routine: Practice extra-gentle cleaning, regular lash brushing, and saying no to abrasive eye-rubbing! A daily routine keeps lashes consistently healthy.
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Use the right products and avoid the wrong ones: The proof is in the product! Steer clear of oil-based skin care products and waterproof mascara, as they can damage lash extensions and loosen the adhesive, reducing retention time. Instead, use mild, water-based cleansers for longer-lasting eyelash extensions.
- Practise safe makeup removal: Be super gentle when removing makeup to avoid damaging eyelash extensions. They don’t like to play rough!
Professional Tips for Longer-Lasting Lashes
If you want your eyelash extensions to withstand the test of time, the advice of a professional lash technician is always advised. Here are our top tips for extending the lifespan of your eyelash extensions in safe and simple ways:
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Go for regular touch-ups: The more frequent and consistent your lash infill schedule is, the easier it will be to maintain lash fullness and shine. Lash technicians have their client's best interests at heart, and regular touch-ups are the way to go.
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Protect your lashes during sleep: Lash maintenance is the perfect excuse for investing in a silk pillowcase (your hair will thank you, too)! You can also sleep on your back to prevent the lashes from coming into too much contact with your pillow.
- Protect your lashes during exercise: Oily sunscreens, splashes of water, and droplets of sweat are all sworn enemies of eyelash extensions. Protect them when working out or during the hot summer months with a gentle sealer to prevent deterioration and lash loss.
Signs It's Time for an Infill
Not sure whether your eyelash extensions are ready to bite the dust? There are a few ways to tell if it’s their time to be reborn.
If your lashes need maintenance, there will be noticeable gaps where lashes have come loose and an uneven lash line that looks slightly off-set.
Commit to regular infill sessions with your lash technician for optimal lashes and to maintain your natural lash health. For all the lash technicians out there, remember to remind your clients of the importance of infill so that you can continue making their lashlines look flawlessly full and healthy at all times.
Common Mistakes That Shorten Lash Lifespan
“How long should eyelash extensions last?” is a popular question for lash techs and enthusiasts. We already know the answer: six to eight weeks on average. But if you don’t look after your eyelash extensions the way they deserve, it can significantly shorten their lifespan.
Some of the most common mistakes people make in connection with reducing their eyelash extension lifespan include:
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Improper care: Rubbing eyes, using harsh products, and not cleaning your makeup off properly can all contribute to a shorter lash lifespan.
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Using incompatible products: Oil-based products erode lash adhesives and can cause eyelash extensions to loosen and fall out.
- Not following lash technician advice: Lash techs give advice for good reason: they want your lashes to last as long as possible! Remember: following professional advice is crucial for extending lash longevity.
Aftercare for Natural Lashes
Maintaining natural lash health between extension applications post treatment is every bit as important as caring for the extensions themselves.
After all, they’re the ones that will be there throughout every infill, re-application, and maintenance session going forward! So, taking care of them is key to overall lash maintenance.
Embrace the right products and practices for nourishing natural lashes and allow them to rest before reapplying extensions for better long-term lash health. Take professional lash technician advice seriously and embrace a clean, consistent lash care routine.
Achieve Long-Lasting Lash Retention
Eyelash extensions typically last six to eight weeks, but this timeline can shorten without the right aftercare and day-to-day maintenance practices.
Proper care and regular professional maintenance are the two key ingredients for consistently producing gorgeous, long-lasting lashes.
Follow our best practices to ensure the health and longevity of natural lashes and extensions and help them enjoy a long, happy life on your or your client’s gorgeous face!